As a first time attendee of the annual NAACP National Convention, I was able to participate as a member of the newly formed Spokane-branch NAACP Youth Council. Youth and college activities began for us with the “All In: Playing in Color Masterclass” led by special guests Tiffany James, Czaria Valentine, Gia Greenidge, and Tenaj Ferguson. These impressive, motivating, inspirational Black women spoke about their experiences in life, in school, and in their careers.
These women encouraged self-expression and empowerment, sharing a message to the youth to do what they truly want without being shackled by society or the need to make money. They gave us useful advice and lessons, even going out of their way to speak with us individually. The welcome session for the youth allowed us to meet many other students from all over the United States. Speakers Terayle Hill, Quentin Savwoir, William McCurdy, and others focused on civic engagement strategies and mobilizing young Black voters. Voter registration and activation was a key focus. Other important social issues were a part of the sessions to include a rally to protest gun violence, and access to education. Actor Michael Rainey, Jr. hosted the Day 1 welcome party.
Learning to operate as a delegate was also an important part of this experience and Day 2 of the convention started with regional breakouts where nominees were voted on for positions within the organization. This was followed by the youth and college lunch and learn session called “AI for Advocacy” which delved into how artificial intelligence can be used as a benefit. A key focus in this session was the goal of activating youth from underrepresented backgrounds to become more informed about STEM careers and how AI can help support this.
Useful resources were provided to help us learn more about college and for future careers. A youth and college social at Atomic Golf and a young professional’s reception allowed for a time to socialize. On our last day for the youth and college portion of the convention, President Joe Biden, among many other political dignitaries, gave us a speech at a morning plenary and the day ended with the Juanita Jackson Mitchell Youth Awards Gala and afterparty.
My takeaway from the event as a youth delegate was this: inspiration to achieve my goals and to aim high. My ideas about what I could accomplish grew by attending this conference, I left feeling activated and more motivated than when I arrived. Seeing so many people from all over the United States showed me the importance and power of voting and collective action. A principal message I’ll remember was the call to not fight among ourselves but to unite in situations like the current run for the presidential election.
A quote from the NAACP to “reaffirm our commitment to using our collective ingenuity, creativity, and strength to continue the fight for civil rights and social justice” was evident at this 115th convention. I left feeling ready to get involved, to be invested in my community, and ready to be “all in.”
Mya Jefferson is an 11th-grader at West Valley High School.